Robert M. Check, 80, of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. He was the loving husband of the late Celeste M. (Horwath) Check. Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late Stephen William and Margaret (Velopolcak) Check. Bob was a proud U.S. Marine, serving in the Corps during the Vietnam War. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and computer science from Moravian University. Throughout his career, Bob worked for Bethlehem Steel at the Homer Research Center, AT&T, Lucent Technologies, and Agere. Bob was an avid hunter and fisherman. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle and feeding the wild songbirds in his backyard. Bob was a member of various local social clubs. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Survivors: daughter- Amanda Check of Danielsville, PA and her partner Chris Romano; son- Randall Check of Bethlehem, PA and his spouse Ariel Quinn and their daughter Amelia Check; sister- Susan Check and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother- Stephen Check.
A Calling Time will be held on Thursday, March 12 10-11AM with a Memorial Service at 11AM all in Downing Funeral Home, Inc. 1002 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018.

Brian W. Gaugler, 83, of Bethlehem, passed away February 28, 2026. He was the loving husband to Karen A. (Messick) Gaugler. Born in Bethlehem, he was the son of the late Marie (McCafferty) and Raymond Gaugler Sr. Brian graduated from Liberty High School and retired from Bethlehem Steel after 32 years of service. Brian was known for his quick wit, upbeat personality, and always lending a hand to help others. He loved riding his Harley Davidson through the Pocono Mountains and visiting his three daughters and grandchildren in Florida. He was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, 76ers and NASCAR. Brian enjoyed golfing, fishing and watching Clint Eastwood movies. He was also a lifetime member of various local social clubs and was committed to supporting their missions. He will be deeply missed.

Survivors: wife- Karen Gaugler; daughters- Robin Read and her children- Nicolas & Matthew Read, Tammy Read wife of Jeremy and their children- Bryan and Megan Read, Wendy Gaugler wife of Ray Lubomski; step-son- Charlie Kline Jr. He was predeceased by his brother- Raymond Gaugler Jr.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 11th 10-11 with a Service at 11:15 in Downing Funeral Home, Inc. 1002 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial to follow in Cedar Hill Memorial Park.

Contributions can be made in Brian’s memory to the American Cancer Society care of Downing Funeral Home, Inc.

Edward J. Palenchar, 95, of Bethlehem, passed away February 23, 2026. He was the loving husband of the late Eleanor (Farkas) Palenchar. Born in Bethlehem, he was the son of the late Frank and Anna (Kostelnick) Palenchar. Edward worked as a painter for many years, retiring from Bethlehem Steel. He was a member of Saints Simon and Jude Catholic Church. He was a Golden Hiller, enjoyed traveling with his wife and was Lehigh University and Eagles and Phillies sports fan. He also enjoyed playing cards especially family favorite Pinochle. He will be deeply missed.

Survivors: sons- Thomas and wife Linda of Charleston, WV, Richard and wife Jennifer of Bethlehem, David of Easton, Robert and wife Tina, of Nazareth; grandchildren- Andrew, Nicole, Jason, Randy, Aubrey, Ashley, Joshua, Jordyn, Tayler and Madisyn; 13 great grandchildren; brother- Richard and wife Bonnie of Hellertown. He was predeceased by his brothers- William and Francis.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 4th 9:30-10:30AM with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:30AM all in Saints Simon and Jude Catholic Church 730 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial to follow in Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or to Family Pillars Hospice care of Downing Funeral Home, Inc.

Dolores “Lori” Ronca Bianco Ottesen, 94, of Bethlehem, passed peacefully on February 20, 2026. Born in 1931 in Fountain Hill, Lori was one of nine children of Philip and Anna Ronca. Raised in a large, spirited Italian family home filled with homemade pasta, pastries, laughter, and storytelling, she carried that warmth and welcoming spirit with her throughout her life.

After graduating from Fountain Hill High School, where she excelled academically and cheered with enthusiasm, Lori attended Millersville University. She paused her studies to care for her beloved sister, Dorothy, before earning her Bachelor’s degree in Education. She began her teaching career in New York and continued for more than 40 years in the Bethlehem Area School District, shaping young lives with patience, intelligence, and kindness. She spoke of those years with lasting pride and affection.

Lori married Frank Bianco, President and Owner of Pembroke Dress Co., and lovingly raised their five children in Stafore Estates, a neighborhood she was especially proud of, as it was built by her father, Philip Ronca. Her twin sister, Maryanne Werpehowski, lived nearby, and together they raised their children. As some of the earliest residents of Stafore, the family became part of a close-knit community that fostered lifelong friendships. Lori was also a longtime member of Saucon Valley Country Club.

Bright, stylish, and entrepreneurial, Lori had a keen eye for real estate and interior design, always making her homes feel warm, beautiful, and welcoming. A devout Catholic and member of Notre Dame Church in Bethlehem, faith and family were at the heart of everything she did.

In 1990, Lori married Peter Ottesen, Technology Executive and Author, and began a joyful new chapter filled with global travel, companionship, and shared passions. Lori loved tennis, golf, and staying active, always relishing time spent with Peter. Together, they enjoyed playing duplicate bridge and earned the level of Bridge Life Masters, finding great delight in the intricacies of the game. They spent winters in their Boca Raton, Florida home, enjoying their hobbies and lifestyle at The Polo Club, where they made wonderful friends.

A lover of the arts, Lori was active with the Pennsylvania Playhouse, often performing alongside her children. She was also a dedicated member of the American Association of University Women, supporting educational and charitable causes. Music filled her home — especially show tunes sung around the piano, with Lori leading the way.

An excellent seamstress and gracious host, Lori delighted in cooking and baking for family and friends. Holidays were joyful, summers by the pool were lively, and no one ever left her home without feeling full and cared for. Lori had a rare gift for making everyone feel seen and special. With her quick wit, radiant smile, and infectious laugh, she lit up every room. She wished most to be remembered for her kindness, and that is exactly how she will be remembered: vibrant, loving, fabulous, and unforgettable. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, daughter, and aunt, she will be missed every day, but her sparkle will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who love her.

Lori is lovingly remembered by her five children: Kathleen (Gerard) McNally; Francine Bianco Tax and her late husband Gregory; Lisa (Troy) Guth; Kristine Eckenrode; and Joseph Bianco. She was blessed with nine grandchildren: Brian and Brendan McNally; Clayton Tax; Natasha (Anthony) Lacken; Tyler (fiancée Sara Bain) and Colby Guth; Emory and Skyla Eckenrode; Brianna Bianco; and one cherished great-grandchild, Joseph Lacken.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, February 28, at 10:00 a.m. at Notre Dame Church, 1861 Catasauqua Road, Bethlehem, PA 18018.

Adelaide M. Ortwein, 98, of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully February 14, 2026. She was born in Bethlehem to the late Angela C. Hoffstetter and John F. Meis. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Robert J. Ormiston, son Michael Ormiston, stepgrandson Derek Kehoe, husband Leonard Ortwein and also her siblings Anna Marie Minarik, John L. Meis and Joan Andrews.
Adelaide graduated from Allentown Central Catholic High School. Prior to raising a family she worked as a stenographer at Bethlehem Steel. After the loss of her first husband she was employed with Lehigh University and also worked as a sales clerk at Ramballs Jewelery Store.
Adelaide had a deep and strong faith and family was very important to her. She was an avid reader who also enjoyed crossword puzzles, playing bridge and traveling abroad. Adelaide was full of life and enjoyed hosting parties, dancing and singing around the piano. She had a gift of making people feel welcome in her home.
She is survived by her children Lois Kehoe (Kevin) of Bethlehem, Robert Ormiston (Alysia) of Zion Grove, stepchildren Martha Tirpak (John) of Allentown, Regina Kohlmeier (Joe) of Allentown, Kathleen Weaver (Keith) of Dundee, NY, 4 grandchildren & 6 great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Calling time will be held on Saturday, February 21st 9-10AM with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10AM all in Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church 1861 Catasauqua Rd. Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial to follow in Holy Saviour Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Downing Funeral Home, Inc.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Holy Family Senior Living 1200 Spring St. Bethlehem, PA 18018 or to St. Lukes Hospice 240 Union Station Plaza Bethlehem, PA 18015.

Cheryl “Cheri” A. Buonanno, 66, of Bethlehem, passed away February 5, 2026. She was the loving wife and soul mate of 10 years to James “Jim” Buonanno, whom she had known for over 17 years. Born in Allentown, she was the daughter of Barbara (Sinsky) Hood and the late Ron Brobst. Cheri served in the U.S. Army. She then worked as a Nurse for 27 years. After her retirement she worked at Weis Markets for a few years. Cheri was a mentally and physically tough woman. She also was a very intelligent and creative woman who when she wanted anything, she made sure she got it. She was very determined. She was fantastic in the kitchen where she would make everything taste so delicious. Cheri was a great researcher. Cheri had a beautiful spirit, very caring towards others especially those who needed consolation. Cheri would do just about anything for anybody. She was an extremely generous person for sure! Beautiful heart and soul! Her dog Toby, which she picked out online from Lancaster, will miss her. Cheri loved playing and walking Toby with her rollator. She made many friends along the way walking Toby. She taught Toby very well. Cheri was well known in our neighborhood. Heaven has a gem of a woman!
Survivors: husband- Jim Buonanno, mother- Barbara Hood, daughter- Angela Zemlansky, sister- Donna Van Etten, aunt- Ginny Haas, cousin- Mike Haas, mother-in-law- Benita C. Buonanno. She was predeceased by her brother- Robert Hood.
A Calling Time will be held on Friday, February 13th 5-7PM with a Memorial Service at 7PM in Downing Funeral Home, Inc. 1002 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018.

Theresa Kristof Prah died January 25, 2026 in Bethlehem, PA. She was 94. Theresa was born in McAdoo PA, the youngest daughter of Reverend Nicholas Kristof and Helen (Zima) Kristof, and grew up in New Salem, PA. She was married to Joseph Prah for forty-six years. Theresa's life passions were religion, traveling and needlework. She was a member of Saints Peter and Paul Byzantine Catholic Church and Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church. Theresa’s love of travel took her to Europe and Asia first by steamships and propeller planes. In 2012, she and her family traveled to the Ruthenian homeland of her parents, meeting cousins and touring with a relative. Among other works, she made hundreds of quilts, some of which were appliqued, some fashioned from hand-dyed fabrics, all made with gusto.
Theresa was predeceased by her siblings Mary Beifuss, Andrew George Kristof, Martha Kristof Smith, Ernest Kristof, Joachim Kristof, Josaphat Kristof, Zoltan Joseph Kristof, her husband Joseph David Prah and sons Joseph Gerard Prah and Gregory Nicholas Prah. She is survived by three children, twelve grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Mass will be celebrated at 10AM on Friday, February 6th in Saints Peter and Paul Byzantine Catholic Church, 1140 Johnston Dr, Bethlehem, PA 18017. Burial to follow in Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem. Arrangements are entrusted to Downing Funeral Home, Inc.

David C. Muth, 68, of Emmaus, passed away in his home on January 21, 2026. He was the loving husband of nearly 43 years to Joan M. (Szvetecz) Muth, with whom he shared more than 50 years together.

Born in Allentown, Dave was the son of the late Charles and Betty Mae (Schmoyer) Muth. He was a 1975 graduate of Liberty High School and earned his Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Moravian College in 1979.

Dave built a long and meaningful career in financial positions in the healthcare industry. He worked as an accountant at Lutheran Home at Topton, where he formed many lifelong friendships, and later served as Chief Financial Officer at New Vitae, Inc. He concluded his career at Concern, from which he retired.

In his younger years, Dave had a deep passion for music. He was a talented trombone player and a proud member of both the Pioneer Band and the American Legion Band. It was through music that David met the love of his life — Joan — while playing together in the marching band at Liberty High School. As their children grew older, Dave chose to step away from music so he could devote more time and energy to his family, a decision that reflected his lifelong priorities.

Above all else, Dave was a devoted family man who was always willing to help his children, grandchildren, and friends in any way he could. He took great pride in caring for his home and pool and was never afraid to take on a home improvement project. His home was a gathering place, where he enjoyed hosting friends and family at his annual summer pool party. He especially treasured his many cats and granddogs. Dave was a faithful member of Old Zionsville United Church of Christ and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Dave is survived by his wife, Joan Muth; daughter, Kelly Kowalewski and her husband, Travis; son, Ryan Muth and his wife, Kimberly; grandchildren, Luke, Willow, Carter, and Ava.

A viewing will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m., at Downing Funeral Home, Inc., 1002 W. Broad Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial will follow at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in David’s memory to Old Zionsville United Church of Christ, 5981 Fountain Road, Old Zionsville, PA 18068.